Half Day Trek To Volcan Misti

My husband and I found this fabulous tour company here on trip advisor. We went on 2 private tours, a two day trek of the Colca Canyon and a half day trek to El Misti. Both treks were incredible, Luigi was our guide for the Colca Canyon, he was great company, funny and super knowledgable, he really did make our experience magical, also the driver Roberto was brilliant, he took pictures for us and both guys were fantastic company. For our El Misti trek our guide was Cristian who’s gentle nature and extensive knowledge were unparalleled, we loved every second of both tours and we thank Saul the owner for such a truly unforgettable magical experience.

This trek was one of the main things we were looking forward to when coming to Peru and it didn't disappoint. We booked the Arequipa - Colca Canyon - Puno 3D/2N. The trek was quite expensive but we wanted a private feel. Day one started with Marcelo our guide collecting us in a minivan from our hotel in Arequipa. From the moment we meet Marcelo I felt justified in our decision to book the trek and we instantly got on. Marcelo's English is superb and he is incredibly knowledgeable about an array of subjects. The first day was a long drive through the foothills to over a mountain range and ends in the canyon with a 30 min walk to the lodge for the evening. During this drive we stopped at villages, rock formations, wild animals, dinosaur footprints and even picked up a local lady at our request to help her up the steep hills. On arrival at the lodge we had lunch and Marcel arranged a vegan option which was above and beyond. When checked into our cabin which was basic but to be expected in a canyon and then changed into our swimsuits for a dip in the hot springs which was stunning. Special shout out to Abell our driver who must of had arms of steal to deal with the shaking. Day two after a decent sleep we were again looked after at breakfast with a vegan option and set of at 0700hrs for trek up along and back down the canyon. This was challenging in parts but nothing too extreme. Again Marcelo was great and conversation flowed easily both educatonal and personal. At the end of 5hr we arrived at the osis Lodge where we had lunch and free time to enjoy the amazing naturally feed swimming pool. We finished the day with dinner and went to get a well deserved sleep. I have to admit that sleep ws tough as the oasis has a lot of insects but that's our problem. Day 3 we awoke at 0330 for an early start. It was a 3hr trek out of the canyon and was physically tough. Marcelo kept a steady pace with regular breaks and by the time the sun came up we were almost at the top. We had some great moments with mules coming up and down the trial. At the top was a magnificant view and a much needed coffee. We then had breakfast at a nearby cafe which was amazing. Our driver Abell then meet us with the van and we set off for Puno. On route we stopped to see the Condors, again Marcelo's passio was great including letting me use his binoculars throughout. We also stopped at Chivay where Marcelo introduced us to fruits on the market, and volcano view point where we discussed geology (I'm a geologists so was happy to give him some information in return ????). We also stopped at severally stunning places on the route to Puno including viewpoints and lakes. I think you can see that I had to write this review as it exceeded all my expecatations and Marcelo felt more of an informed friend than a tour guide which is extremely rare. If you do one thing in Peru do this and ask for Marcelo he is a star! Thanks Aude + David